At what heart rate level is heat stress considered a concern?

Heat stress is typically a concern when an individual's heart rate elevates significantly due to environmental conditions, particularly in high-temperature settings. A heart rate in excess of 180 beats per minute indicates a level of cardiovascular strain that usually indicates the body is under considerable stress and struggling to maintain homeostasis.

At this heart rate, there is a heightened risk for heat-related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke, particularly if combined with prolonged exposure to high temperatures and physical activity. As the heart works harder to pump blood, the risk of overheating increases, and the body’s innate cooling mechanisms (like sweating) may become overwhelmed, leading to a dangerous situation.

Maintaining awareness of heart rate relative to environmental stressors is crucial for managing heat stress in occupational settings. This knowledge can help industrial hygienists and safety professionals implement appropriate measures to minimize risks to workers in heat-prone environments.